The ride, launched on 17 May 2025, is already receiving recognition as one of the most ambitious dark ride experiences in the UK and combines advanced storytelling and gameplay in a compact format.
In a first for the sector, the ride introduces the ‘S’ size layout of the innovative Gameplay Theatre concept, reimagining the park’s former 4D cinema into an exciting new attraction.
Developed by Lagotronics Projects and Mack Rides, the attraction introduces a brand-new format to the industry: the Gameplay Theatre. Compact, scalable, and fully interactive, this ride concept offers a new blueprint for high-capacity, small-footprint dark rides that are as engaging as they are immersive.
What sets Ghostly Manor apart is its seamless integration of gameplay and storytelling. Riders are equipped with custom-designed hand-held “Phantom Phasers” and tasked with capturing ghosts across eight richly themed scenes, including both physical sets and large-scale projection environments. Guests can shoot at virtual ghosts rendered in real time by the game engine, trigger physical effects and moving set pieces within the ride environment, and interact with projection-mapped media that responds dynamically to player input.
The new ride system by Mack Rides rotates guests smoothly from scene to scene, combining traditional theatrical staging with cutting-edge technology. It's an experience that appeals to all ages and encourages repeat visits.
The technical backbone of Ghostly Manor was delivered by Lagotronics Projects, whose game system controls everything from interactive hit detection and real-time scoring to lighting and audio synchronisation. Their expertise ensures the gameplay feels responsive, rewarding, and deeply embedded in the story of the ride.
Importantly, Ghostly Manor makes the most of a modest footprint, having been built within the park’s former 4D cinema. This demonstrates how advanced experiences can be achieved without major expansion, offering new opportunities for parks with space or budget limitations.
By blending gameplay, media, and themed design in a scalable package, Ghostly Manor sets a new standard for interactive attractions. It is not just an impressive dark ride, it’s a game-changing concept with the potential to influence the future of the industry.
Partners
- Paultons Park
- Mack Rides
- Leisure Expert group
- Themics Philippines
